Unit-by-unit analysis: TE and WR

Scout.com

07/24/2006

Denver Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith is coming off a Pro Bowl season. He works tirelessly, he knows the game as well as anybody and he's shown no signs of slipping at age 36. Read an analysis of the Broncos' wide receivers and tight ends.

This off season the Broncos lost Jeb Putzier (released), Wesley Duke
(injured and released) and Landon Trusty (injured). They are one more
injury from being incredibly thin at the position. Alexander played well
in the running game last year but wasn't a frequent target in the
passing game. He'll have to pick up some of the catches that left when
Putzier, Denver's third-leading receiver last year, was cut.

Jackson is a
converted receiver and finally seems comfortable with the extra weight he
put on to play the position.

Scheffler is a talented second-round pick
that could end up as Denver's often-used second tight end if he adjusts
quickly to the NFL. He has good speed and hands.

Smith is coming off a Pro Bowl season. He works tirelessly, he knows
the game as well as anybody and he's shown no signs of slipping at age
36. Walker should keep the defensive attention off Smith.

If Walker is
fully recovered from last year's knee injury, he is one of the best
receivers in the NFL. Whatever the Broncos need him to do, he will be
capable of filling that role.

Watts benefited most from Lelie's
offseason-long holdout, which probably will go into training camp if he's not
traded. Watts, a former second-round pick, dug himself out of the doghouse
by showing a better understanding of the offense and doing away with
the dropped passes that plagued his first two seasons.

Terrell needs to
gain some ground. The Broncos were excited about him coming into the
offseason, but then Watts passed him.

Marshall was impressive in offseason
camps and the big rookie could contribute in some role this year.
Devoe, Adams and Kircus are all veterans who bring something to the table.
Because of the depth at the position, the Broncos will have to make some
difficult cuts.